Love's Mountain Quest

A sweet love story that begins as a quest by the main characters to pursue kidnappers. Along the way, Joanna and Isaac are drawn to each other and fall in love. Another well written story by Misty Beller that tugs at your heart and leaves you with a hunger for more of her books.

Love’s Mountain Quest is a wonderful story..a must read for anyone looking for a good inspirational story. Looking to God instead of yourself and trusting Him. Joanna’s son and friend are kidnapped after witnessing a crime. Isaac is on his way to town when she asks for help getting them back. On the long journey there are setbacks at every turn. The two kidnapped are trying to stay alive and find a way to escape their captures. This is the second book in the Hearts of Montana series...it can be read alone but I would recommend reading the first one as well. They are both wonderfully written and inspirational as well as exciting and of course some romance thrown in!! Like all Misty Beller books the story jumps right into the action and that is just one reason I love her books!!

Misty M. Beller's writing from the very beginning of a book pulls you in and doesn't let you go until the end. The book Love's Mountain Quest does not disappoint! There are so many twists and turns (not just from the mountain trails) in the story and surprises that you have to keep reading. It is difficult to put her books down. Another positive about her writing is God and prayer is always involved in the story lines.
Widow Joanna Watson and her son, Samuel, have made a new life for themselves in Settler's Fort. It is not an easy life for a woman alone but she has a friend, Laura Hannon, who gives her moral support and looks after Samuel to help her out. Isaac Bowen comes by occasionally and leaves food that he has trapped to help her with putting food on the table.
When Samuel and Laura are missing, Joanna finds help from Isaac and they set out following the trail. It turns out to be a longer process than Joanna was hoping for since she is desperate to get her son back. In the process they both learn to trust others and not just always do everything on their own.
Isaac, who had a rough past he left years before, has to face the old demons and put them to rest for good. Through his faith he knows God has forgiven him but he struggles with thinking he is good enough for others. Because of various tragedies in Joanna's life, she has had to rely on herself for survival. It is beautiful the way Misty Beller uses their circumstances to allow God to teach them the trust they need but to also believe in each other.
I strongly recommend this book to anyone who likes to read about people overcoming tragedies in life and learning to fully trust God. It is always amazing to read about the struggles our ancestors went through to settle this country and how their faith in God pulled them through.

'She struggled to believe the Almighty heard her tiny cry.'

When Joanna Watson, a young widow, needs Isaac Bowen's help to rescue her kidnapped son and friend, she finds she must also guard her heard from this quiet, strong man. Isaac just wants to live a quiet life after being delivered from a despicable past. But he is finding it very difficult to stay unaffected by the young widow.

'He'd long ago stopped letting his past rise up to haunt him.'

Misty Beller takes us along on a dangerous trek through the mountains of Montana as Joanna and Isaac follow the kidnappers, men who form a dangerous and deadly gang. We also get glimpses into the outlaws' camp as they terrorize the young son of Joanna and her friend. We feel every emotion as things go from bad to worse, with both hoping and praying for God's protection and deliverance.

Both journeys are harrowing but these folks are relying on God at every turn to see them through. Beller's writing just keeps getting better and better and I never miss a new release.

*My thanks to Bethany House Publishers for a copy of this book via Net Galley. The opinions in this review are entirely my own.

Feel in love with the characters, I love how they sacrificed for each other. This was an incredible story that keeps you rapidly turning pages. I found myself on the edge of my seat often, so many twist and turns. The author does a great job of reflecting how life’s journey takes us on ups and downs. The forgiveness of God and how he comes after us when we veer off made this story so beautiful. The endurance the characters put up with on this long and hard journey just keeps the reader rooting for them. A sweet clean romance that builds through endurance, forgiveness and sacrifice is a bonus with this clever and mesmerizing story!
Was given a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.

Misty Beller writes an amazing adventure story. This book had such an engaging storyline. The mother and widow, Joanna Watson's son is missing. The story takes her to rugged mountains in the search for him along with Isaac Bowen. They face many trials, dangers and setbacks as they travel, enough to make anyone give up trying.

It is a beautifully written story filled with a mother's enduring love. I really enjoyed this!

I received an ebook copy from NetGalley. All thoughts are my own.

Love’s Mountain Quest, Misty M. Beller’s second novel in her Hearts of Montana series, isn’t as good as its predecessor but still manages to craft a compelling story. Joanna Watson and Isaac Bowen, both introduced in Hope’s Highest Mountain, embark on another journey when Joanna’s son and friend are kidnapped, and Isaac promises to help them. Especially when he realizes his past may have come back to haunt him.

Beller hasn’t lost her ability to throw you into a setting. She crafts her world carefully, settling you into the mountains just as easily as if you were there.

More time is spent in Joanna’s perspective than Isaac’s, and I found myself craving more of his voice. Isaac is a solid, dependable character, and he is well-paired with hardworking Joanna. I liked his character so much, I wanted a better look inside his head. See what he’s thinking. But the scenes in his perspective give a great glimpse of his character and help define who he is. Beller does a great job of characterizing him.

Laura, the friend, also has a voice in this novel alongside main characters Joanna and Isaac. I can understand the need for her scenes, as Joanna and Isaac’s journey could get potentially boring after a while without something to add suspense. While Laura’s perspective did ramp up the tension, I sometimes felt like too much focus centered on Laura. However, I did become endeared to her, so much so, I hope she’s the main character in a future novel. I would love to see her again.

Overall, Love’s Mountain Quest is a well-written book with an adventure you don’t want to miss. Typical Misty M. Beller book, packed with mountain scenery and a heartwarming romance.

(Note: I received a complimentary copy via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.)

LOVE'S MOUNTAIN QUEST by MISTY BELLER is a Christian historical romance novel which takes place in Montana Territory in 1867. Although it is the second book in the Hearts of Montana series it can easily be read as a stand alone.
Joanna Watson is a young widow who lives in Settler's Fort with her son Samuel. When Samuel and Joanna's friend Laura Hannon are kidnapped,Isaac Bowen comes to the rescue. He has more than one reason to find them, one of which is to try and make up for his ill spent youth, One of the messages that comes out strongly in Isaac and Joanna's search through the mountains is that one should rather trust in the Lord, who is always with us and is all powerful to help us, rather than trust in one's own strength.
The story is tense in parts and hard to put down. It is altogether a most enjoyable read.
I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Bethany House Publishers. The opinions in this review are completely my own.

Another wonderful book by Misty Beller. As all of these author’s books, she doesn’t a wonderful job with making you care so much for the characters in her books. The story had adventure, friendship and a story that makes you wanting it not to end. Misty is one of a handful of authors that I preorder her books because I know I will enjoy them and always worth every penny.

This is my first book by Misty M. Beller and it was amazing. Her story draws you in from the first line.

"The woman stood in the wind, skirts billowing, hair flying, as though the gusts swept away all her inhibitions."

I mean after a description like that you can't help but continue reading and want to know more. The story is about young widow Joanna and her five year old who gets kidnapped along with Laura Hannon, the young woman that watches him after witnessing a the demise of the town's sheriff. Isaac Bowen is the gentleman that feels a strong pull to Joanna but has never shown his feelings towards her. When Joanna finds out that her little boy Samuel is missing, she goes for help and runs into Isaac who immediately enlists himself to help her find him. They set out on the trail on the mountains of Montana which is very rough terrain and not something that Joanna is used to. But she is desperate to find her son. You can definitely relate to her as a mom and can feel her desperation as she gets frustrated when they don't go as fast as she would like to go or don't reach him when she wants to.

Even though Isaac will do anything to help Joanna inside he is battling with his own demons. He knows the group that took Samuel and although he knows God has completely forgiven him for his past he still struggles with thinking if he is good enough for others but especially Joanna. Through this trip you see them get closer to each other and develop stronger feelings which makes for a super sweet love story. God's redemption is great throughout this story and I love how Misty Beller interweaves faith and how it impacts and changes the lives of people. She does this without being preachy or completely in your face which is always a refreshing thing to see. I think this is important especially when you are recommending a Christian Fiction to a new believer.

I definitely recommend this book and although its is part of a series I think it worked well as a stand alone novel. I do want to read the first one just because this one was so good. Plus we do see the character from the first book towards the end of the story!

FTC Disclosure: I received this book from Bethany House Publishers via Netgalley. The opinions in this review are my own.

Love's Mountain Quest
by Misty M. Beller
Bethany House
You Like Them You Are Auto-Approved
Bethany House Publishers
Christian
Pub Date 30 Jun 2020 | Archive Date 05 Aug 2020

Incredible story! The author pulled me right in and didn't disappoint. I will recommend this book to our patrons.
Thank you NetGalley and Bethany House for the ARC of this book.
5 star

Enjoyable story set in the rugged Montana frontier. The struggles the characters went through during this period and the endurance they had were amazing. Youthful decisions that may come back to haunt a person is well addressed through Isaac's story. A mother's love and courage when her child is in danger portrayed through Joanna rang true. The characters' reliance on God resonated throughout. Recommended!

My review today is on the Historical Western Romance, Love's Mountain Quest. This is book two in the series Hearts of Montana. I'm always thrilled to get my hands on one of Mistie's books. Her mountain stories are awesome. This book is well written, full of adventure, and full of faith. I know you are going to love it. This book will be released on June 30; you need to pre-order it today. You don't want to miss it.

Joanna Watson is a young widow. She didn't know being a single parent in Settler's Fort would be so hard. She takes in laundry and works from sun up to sun down. She lets her five year old son go the the swimming hole with her friend. They don't come back. She asks a man who had helped her before to help her.

Isaac Bowen was once an outlaw. Now he lives a quiet life in the mountains with his father. He has helped Joanna and her young son before and feels responsible for them, now the boy and a young single woman are missing and the sheriff dead. He must lead her into the mountains to find them. He's sure the outlaws he once ran with are the ones who have kidnapped them. How will Joanna feel about him when he finds out what kind of man he really is.

A journey through the mountains against the elements, constant dangers, and injuries. Can they reach them soon enough to save them. God has a plan for these two broken souls; a plan for a future and a hope. God has a plan for you too, a good plan and not for evil. Stop the fear in your life, give God your heart, and watch him move in your crisis.

Misty Beller writes another exciting adventure book! Love's Mountain Quest (Hearts of Montana, #2) is a book full of adventure, danger and romance. I have really enjoyed all of Ms. Beller's books. They have great descriptions, narratives and are faith based.

When Joanna's son, Samuel and their friend, Laura are kidnapped by outlaws, Joanna asks Isaac to help her to find and rescue them. They face many dangers and discoveries about each other while on the trail. Laura is trying to keep Samuel and herself safe and alive while also trying to make their escape.

Great story with different points of view. I can't wait for the next book in the series. I received this book from the author and all opinions are my own.

This is a well written book that is full of adventure and faith. It hooks you on the first page and doesn't let go. This is a book you hate to see end but you just have to know what happens next. The author makes the book come to life with her words, you can see all the scenery and feel all the emotions. I highly recommend this book. Thank you Bethany House and Misty M. Beller via Netgalley for the ARC copy of this wonderful book. All opinions expressed are my own.

Wow! Love's Mountain Quest grabbed my attention from page one and held my attention until the very end. The story is filled with action, mild suspense, danger, friendship and love. Although this is book 2 in the Hearts of Montana series, this book can easily stand alone as it only briefly mentions characters from book 1. That said, book 1 is ALSO a great read and also well worth the time required to read it! Great story. I really like this author's writing style.

With thanks to NetGalley and Bethany House Publishers for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
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I had opted for this book because I had read "Hope's Highest Mountain" by Misty Beller and was very impressed. The story was simple and sweet, the writing immediately making a connect to your heart. When I saw that this book was part of the same series, I jumped at the opportunity. And I wasn't disappointed.

The lead characters in this book, Joanna Watson and Isaac Bowen, both make their appearance in the first book. I was hoping then that the two of them would get a happy ending some time in the future. I'm glad this book gives them exactly that.

"Loves Mountain Quest" begins with a tragedy. Joanna's little son, Samuel, and her friend Laura Hannon have been kidnapped by a couple of brutes. Like any mother, Joanna immediately decides to locate her son and her friend in the mountainous area, and Isaac is her support and guide on this dangerous quest.

Joanna Watson's strength was visible in the first book and establishes itself further in this. Isaac too continues his strong silent and reliable nature from the first book. So that's the main thing I want to appreciate the author for. Just to fit the requirements of the story, she doesn't change their characteristics as narrated in the first book. Rather, she turns the story to fit the characteristics of the characters. And it's the perfect approach. Though reading the first book isn't necessary, I'll glad I did. It gave the perfect background to Joanna and Isaac.

It hardly takes a few pages for the thrill to begin in this book. And it doesn't cease till the end. The whole story is gripping and easy-flowing. Though it's a fairly long book at 330+ pages, the storyline and the writing makes you complete it quickly.

Does that mean a 5 star rating? Unfortunately no. I do have a few minor quibbles with the book.
*****MINOR SPOILERS IN THIS PARA*****
Some of the decisions taken by the characters seem totally illogical and no rational person would take such steps under those circumstances. Just to give one example, if someone offers to secretly help the kidnapped person escape by writing a note about the plan, the kidnapped wouldn't ever keep that note tucked in her clothes but destroy it so that the other brutes don't find it.
Also, the beloved characters from book 1, Ingrid and Micah Bradley, are mostly missing in this book except for a very brief appearance by Ingrid in the epilogue. I really would have liked a little more of them.

I still quite enjoyed this book and will recommend it to my friends for sure.

My rating: 4.5/5.

A question to the author: Will the next book be about Laura Hannon? I'm still deciding whom I want her with: Aaron or Nate.🤭😁

#LovesMountainQuest
#NetGalley

Joanna Watson, a widow with a young son, tries to carry on with her life in Sutters Fort, Montana Territory. Her friend, Laura, takes her son on a Sunday walk along the creek. When Joanna goes to look for them, she discovers she can't find them. They are missing. With the help of Mr. Bowen, a friend, and trapper/trail guide, they go off together to look for them. Along the way, they are faced with hardship and their relationship starts to deepen.

The story deals with trust, redemption, healing, second chances, and a lot of faith in the Lord. It's an inspirational and heart-warming story set in the 1800s. The relationship between Joanna and Mr. Bowen was a truly inspiring love story. The ending wrapped up nicely and this is another great read from the author.

A connected companion to Hope's Highest Mountain, readers return to the rugged beauty of the Montana mountains.



Joanna Watson sets off on a quest to retrieve her son from a band of ruffians, with the help of loner Isaac Bowen, a man with secrets of his own. Joanna is determined to pull her own weight, as well as protect those in her care. She is very logical and level-headed despite everything that has happened to her, putting her trust in God. Meanwhile, Isaac is used to being in control and being someone that others can depend on, he is used to being alone, and isn't accustomed to depending on someone else. Both Isaac and Joanna are strong faith driven people, they get to know each other better over the course of the story, as they work together, forming a friendship under the Montana sky.



Laura is taken along with Samuel, enduring the cruel treatment of hardened men, as she fights for her life and that of the small boy in her charge. I admired her strength and endurance.



A story of hardship and triumph in the face of adversity, friendship, faith, and determination. There were times when it was hard to read, because more and more bad things kept happening, and I just wanted to say, " Haven't they suffered enough?" But by the end, I appreciated everything that they had gone through, and I felt for them. I think that the author does a great job of showing their strong faith against the challenges of the mountains and man. Fans of the first book will love seeing returning faces in this story, as well as getting to know new characters and their stories.





I received a complimentary ecopy of this book. Opinions are my own.

Sweet. Inspiring. Heart Warming. Engaging.

First of all, the cover of this book is absolutely gorgeous. I know they say “Don’t judge a book by the cover”, but in this case - the beauty, the landscape, the colors - tell it all!

“Once more, she screamed her son’s name into the air, tasting her desperation with the cry. Still no answer.”

Young widow Joanna Watson is struggling to make a new home for her five-year-old son, Samuel, in the little mountain town of Settler's Fort. When she returns home from work to find Samuel and the woman watching him missing, with no lawman in town, she enlists a man she prays has enough experience in this rugged country to help. Isaac Bowen wants nothing more than a quiet, invisible life in these mountains, far away from the bad decisions of his past. But he has a strong suspicion of who's behind the kidnapping, and if he's right, he knows all too well the evil they're chasing. As they press on against the elements, Joanna fights to hold on to hope, while Isaac knows a reckoning is coming. They find encouragement in the tentative trust that grows between them, but whether it can withstand the danger and coming confrontation is far from certain in this wild, unpredictable land.

If I was, to sum up, the book in one phrase it would be… JUST ONE MORE CHAPTER! Not only due to the nature of a kidnapping that keeps you on the edge of your seat but also the storyline and writing maintain your interest. As a writer, I believe it would be difficult to write a book with one central concept of a harrowing journey without becoming monotonous or slow. But Misty Beller kept me interested and invested all the way through!

The change of point of view really draws you in and pulls on the heartstrings! I fell in love with the characters. I was so invested in their well being that when they failed, I was saddened; when they succeeded, I cheered; when they were discouraged, I empathized. Even beyond the general characters themselves - I fell in love with Joanna and Isaac’s relationship. Despite their own past mistakes and struggles, they were forgiving and caring towards one another. Isaac’s sheer will to make Joanna’s life better made him endearing and swoon-worthy! “A glimpse at her relaxed face toward the sky made him a little jealous of the sun’s rays. If only he could be the one to take away her cares, even for a minute.”

The power of prayer was strong in this book and I appreciated how despite their circumstances and her fear, Joanna continued to trust in the Lord. I would imagine that a situation involving your child’s kidnapping would create polar opposite feelings toward God and faith. But it was her faith in God that blessed her with the strength, perseverance, and wisdom to continue on their journey! “She imagined sealing the words in a letter, then the paper soaring up to the heavens where her father’s hand grasped it. She’d shared her concerns. Prayed her desperation. Now she had to trust that God would answer in His time. He was - after all - the only one who could control the situation.”

I only had an hour left in the book (thank you kindle for that information) and so I woke up an hour early on my birthday to finish before my family came in singing. And I am not even a morning person!

Although a second book in the series, it can be read as a standalone.

Love’s Mountain Quest will be released June 30, 2020!

The Red Review: ❤️❤️❤️❤️
***4 Hearts: Compelling Characters, Well-Written, Interesting Storyline, Unable to Stop

Another page-turning, can’t-put-down read from gifted storyteller Misty Beller! Set in 1867 in the Montana Territory, Love’s Mountain Quest, Book #2 in the Hearts of Montana series, follows the journey of mountain man Isaac Bowen and widow Joanna Watson as they travel down treacherous, hidden mountain paths in pursuit of a gang of outlaws who kidnapped Joanna’s five-year-old son Samuel and a friend Laura Hannon. Isaac and Joanna, who we meet in the first book of the series, are wonderfully captivating characters, and their sweet romance is endearing even with Isaac’s secret from his past and Joanna’s doubts. Laura and Samuel’s storyline featuring their perilous exploits with the outlaws is suspenseful and adds depth to the story. The faith element affirming trusting God, forgiveness, and redemption is strong and thoughtfully woven into the narrative. I thoroughly enjoyed this emotionally rich, inspiring book and highly recommend it. I am looking forward to Laura’s story in Book #3 of the series Faith’s Mountain Home.

I received a copy of this book in e-book form from the publisher via netgalley but am under no obligation to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.

Misty Beller is a new author for me. And while the book description intrigued me on a surface level, I was quickly immersed in this story on a much deeper level from practically the first page. With constant action and rich description, the desperation of a mother to find her kidnapped child is all too apparent. My own mother’s heart was stirred as I was caught up in the raw emotions of this story. Although there is a romantic element to this book, it is only one layer to the drama, danger, and suspense streaming from the pages. Love’s Mountain Quest proved to be a fast paced read, riveting and compelling, easily attracting your entire focus from cover to cover.

I highly recommend this book. I know I will be searching for other books by this author!


I received this book from Netgalley. All opinions are my own.

Thank you to Bethany House Publishing and Netgalley for a gifted copy of Love's Mountain Quest by Misty M. Beller.

Joanna is alone in this world except for her five year old son, Samuel. When her friend Laura offers to take Samuel swimming while she is working she is grateful. Joanna decides to leave work early and meet up with them for a picnic but she discovers that they have been kidnapped. She turns to the only person she know who can help, Isaac Bowen. Isaac and his father had rescued them six months earlier and he has continued to check on them. Will they be able find Laura and Samuel?

Isaac has a past that he doesn't share with anyone but in order to rescue Laura and Samuel he may have to tell his secrets. How will Joanna react when she knows his past?

The story alternates the point of view between Joanna, Isaac, and Laura. The characters are have strength, determination, and faith.

This is book 2 in the Hearts of Montana series. I have not read the first book but I enjoyed this one very much. Yes, I do plan to read it and continue this series. It does well as a standalone also.

Christian
Release Date: June 30, 2020

# Loves Mountain Quest# by Misty Beller is a Christian fiction book. This book is the second book in the Hearts of Montana book series. Misty writes books set in the 1800s during the frontier times. She shares God's love and character in her books. The setting is a mountain town called Settler's Fort. Joanna Watson is a widow and wants to make a home for her 5 year old son. The themes of forgiveness, self sacrifice, trusting in God, trials are in the book. The author keeps reminding the people in the book of God's character and love. There is action, adventure in the book. It is hard to put the book down at times. I enjoyed the book. Thank you to the author , publisher, netgalley for allowing me to read and review this book. The opinions are my own. I will post my review on Amazon, netgalley, Goodreads, facebook. my blog, Bookbub .

If you enjoy stories set in the mountains along with perils and suspense. then you will love Beller’s latest in “Hearts of Montana” series. We visit once again a young widow Johanna, with her small boy as she takes up residence in the small town of Settler’s fort. She does laundry for others to eke out a living for her and her son. Then the unthinkable happens her son and the young lady who was watching him have been kidnapped by a band of outlaws. Joanna enlists the help of Isaac Bowen, a mountain man who’s aided her once before. Bowen would usually stop by when he was in town to see if they needed anything and this happened to be that day. Together, they set off to recover her son and the friend who was stolen with him. Bowen feels like he knows who they are and where they have taken them. The old beast of his past rises up to haunt him. Many hardships and dangers that the mountains holds fight against them and slow them down. Of course Johanna is beside herself with worry about her son and if they will ever catch up with them. Though this horrible time of their following the scant trail of the outlaws, they find themselves drawing closer to God and each other. You will find yourself turning the pages to see what awaits their search…….
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

I have been a fan of Misty Beller for a couple of years. I had read a number of her other books in ebook format from the Mountain Series and do I was delighted to hear that her books were being published by Bethany House and that I would get a chance to be on her launch team. I was provided a copy of this book from the publisher for my honest review. All opinions are my own.

Since this was Book #2 in the series, I went and immediately read Book #1, Hope’s Highest Mountain. It was also excellent but not a necessity for reading Love’ s Mountain Quest. The story takes place in Montana territory and Joanna’s young son is kidnapped because he saw a murder. The story follows her arduous journey to try and rescue him. She encounters one problem and obstacle after another! There is a romantic element in Misty’s books, but it is not the major focus of the book. What I truly love about Misty’s books is the element of faith and perseverance that she artfully incorporates into her stories.

If you like historical fiction combined with stories of faith and adventure you will enjoy this new release and will probably want to go and read her other books too.

Love’s Mountain Quest is the second book in the Hearts of Montana series, yet it can be read and enjoyed as a stand alone novel.

Isaac and Joanna, who appeared as side characters in book one, Hope’s Highest Mountain, have a hard journey ahead of them before they reach their happily-ever-after. The harrowing trek to rescue Joanna’s son, Samuel, and Joanna’s friend, Laura, helped to move Isaac and Joanna’s friendship into a deeper relationship where love began to grow.

There were plenty of problems along the way and reasons that Isaac did not feel worthy of Joanna. There was also a clear faith message in the story and I appreciated that the reader could see that Isaac had changed a lot since his younger years and was definitely trying to follow God’s leading in his life. I’m looking forward to reading the next book of the series!

(4.5 stars)

I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

(4.5 stars) - when past collides with present

[Book 2 in Misty Beller's Hearts of Montana series, but can readily stand alone]

Joanna discovers that her son, Samuel, and the friend who was watching him have been kidnapped. She turns to Isaac for help. Isaac is pretty sure that he knows who did it & agrees to help her. The two grow closer to each other & God as they struggle through the wilderness, but Isaac has a past that is haunting him even as they are catching up to the kidnappers.

Such an exciting, suspenseful, & sweet story! I love redemption stories & Isaac's melted my heart. The development of his relationship with Joanna was believable and the resolution of their story was highly satisfying. Maybe the next story will be Laura's! This is my 2nd book by Misty Beller and I'm very happy to have found her!

*Clean romance level: sweet kisses, nothing graphic

*Religion: overtly Christian story with Christian themes, but natural to the story not preachy

I was excited to explore Joanna's story in this book. I felt for her in the previous book, Hope's Highest Mountain. Her husband died leaving her a widow and single mother of a very enthusiastic little boy. The journey to Settler's Fort was difficult and Samuel was lost at one point. So to find out that Samuel was once again involved in a tragic event was a little heartbreaking for me. In this case, he and Joanna's friend, Laura, witnessed a murderer and were kidnapped. Joanna enlisted Isaac Bowen's help in rescuing Laura and Samuel from the kidnappers.

Isaac has had his eye on Joanna since he helped rescue Samuel in the first book. Yet he feels unworthy of her due to his past. He spent a year with the very criminals who kidnapped her son before waking up and changing his life. Isaac sees this as an opportunity to redeem himself once and for all and put an end to the gang that he started.

I loved the build of the relationship between these two characters. They both had regard for the other before this journey. I loved how they slowly exposed themselves to the other through this journey. Every obstacle along the way revealed the character of each. My first reaction to Isaac breaking his leg on the journey was that Misty M Beller was throwing in unnecessary obstacles, but what she really did was provide Isaac (and myself) an opportunity to rely on God instead of Isaac himself. It was something his character needed to grow in and revealed my own faults with assuming Isaac would be the means to rescuing Samuel and Laura rather than having faith that God would provide another way.

Usually I get a little frustrated with additional narrators beyond the two main characters. In this case, Laura provided a perspective we wouldn't be able to witness without her POV. But Laura also provided intrigue for me concerning the next book in the series. I'm assuming she'll be the leading female character. I have some suspicions about who the main male character might be but I'll have to wait to find out. Either way, I'm excited to find out more.

Favorite quote:
-I’m sorry, Father. Sorry for thinking I’m the only one to keep Joanna safe. The only one capable of bringing back her son and Miss Hannon. In truth, there’s no way I can do any of it without you. Go before us, Lord. Make our way straight. Fight the battle before us.

Love's Mountain Quest was so enjoyable. I loved seeing the authentic build of feelings and relationship between Isaac and Joanna. I loved the spiritual battles each had to overcome. I ached for the trauma that Samuel and Laura endured. But I can't wait to see Laura's story. Love's Mountain Quest gets 4 Stars. Have you read Love's Mountain Quest? What did you think? Let me know!

The old is gone - the new has begun. 2 Corinthians 5:17b

In the rough world of 1867, life at Settler’s Fort in the Montana Territory means hard work with little playtime for widowed Joanna Watson. Spending an afternoon at the local swimming hole with Laura, a neighbor, is all she can offer her young son Samuel on a hot summer day. When they are not found there, and a murder has obviously occurred, fear settles deep into Joann’s heart. Will they be found alive?

Isaac Bowen was one of the men that rescued Joanna and Samuel from the mountain wilderness after her husband died. Believing he can help find her son and friend, they set out to follow the trail left by the outlaws. The author has done an incredible job of detailing what the search and rescue would have entailed. The pain and panic experienced by Joanna could almost be felt - I wonder if I would have been as strong under such overwhelming odds. Life with the outlaws was very dangerous causing fear and discouragement for Laura as she tried to care for Samuel.

There is constant action, danger and suspense as the characters learn what it really means to trust and rely on God, in spite of the circumstances. You will not put this aside until you know how this ends. Will help come in time?

An ARC of this book was received through Bethany House Publishers, Baker Publishing Group and NetGalley. The comments and impressions are my own and were in no way solicited.

A wilderness story about widower, Joanna, and mountain man, Isaac searching for her kidnapped son. The action begins right away, and there are very few characters, but the book keeps you turning pages and flows well. It sounds like a simple story, but it's so much more. You also see the side of the kidnappers, and the ones who have been kidnapped, implying there might be a third book. Beller is such a good writer and keeps my attention so I never want to stop reading. This book continues the story begun in the first one, but there's little mention of Ingrid, so this could totally be a stand alone.
I also liked that the main character, Joanna, had my name. Haha.
I received this book through netgalley for my honest review.

Love's Mountain Quest is the second book in Misty Beller's Hearts of Montana series. As often happens in series the main characters had been secondary characters in the first book. Joanna Watson is a widow with a young, high-spirited son, a single-mother trying to earn a living and make a home. Isaac Bowen assisted her on her journey to Settler's Fort after her husband's death. He is a quiet mountain man with a past. Together they must search for Joanna's missing son and friend. Beller tells the story of how their relationship changes during this quest while also following the harrowing tale of the kidnapped son and friend. I loved the plot, the action, the character development, the sensory images, and the inspirational message. I must admit however, that each time the characters mentioned feeling comfortable or confident in their own skin, I cringed just a bit due to what seemed out-of-era language. This would not keep me from recommending this book though; I thought it was a wonderful read, and am looking forward to the third book. I am grateful to have received a copy of this book from Bethany House in exchange for my honest opinion. I was under no obligation to provide a positive review and received no monetary compensation.

I love all of Misty Beller's Rocky Mountain books! Imagine being a young widow with a five year old son who is kidnapped along with your friend who was watching him! Then to find out they were taken because they saw the sheriff murdered! This would strike terror in any mother's heart! Joanna was ready to go after them on her own until Isaac Bowen volunteers to track them. I admired how Isaac let Joanna come along even though he could have made better time without her. Joanna and Isaac face unexpected perils along the way. When Isaac realizes who they are tracking, he knows he has to tell attractive Joanna about his past. Will she understand that he is a new creation in Christ? Will they find men willing to help them capture the gang? Anyone who likes historical fiction will want to read Love's Mountain Quest.

Captivating story that keeps you pulled in from beginning to end. The characters in this book are interesting and the author gives us a detailed enough description you can envision them as you are reading. The story begins with Joanna Watson and her young son, Samuel. Joanna is widowed and struggling. Isaac Bowen has been keeping an eye on Joanna for months now and he wishes he could do more but he knows a woman like her would never want the likes of him or so he thinks. When Samuel and their friend Laura are taken captive Isaac is the only one that can help bring them back.

I love that this book not only gives us great detail of the characters and the surroundings but we get not only Joanna and Isaac's telling of the story but also Laura so it revolves around these three characters and what is happening to Laura and Samuel and what is happening with Joanna and Isaac as they hunt for them. Heart wrenching at times and surprises and scares along the way but a great story. I am hopeful Laura will get her own story from this too.

I received an early copy to read and review and give my honest opinion. I truly enjoyed reading this book and highly recommend it.

This story takes place in the Rocky Mountains and the trip is wonderful! The scenes, the suspense, the interesting characters and  getting to know Joanna and Isaac as they traveled through the mountains in search of her kidnapped son was so engaging. Loved it!

"He'd thought he'd buried that past and become someone respectable. But it turned out the past could creep up and catch a man. Make him regret those mistakes a hundred times over."

This second installment in Hearts of Montana series is a little different from the other Misty Beller's books I've read. The story picks up with Joanna, a recently widowed young woman struggling to raise her little boy alone, and Isaac, a mountainman who makes his living off the land, combining their efforts to track down and rescue Joanna's kidnapped son and friend. Joanna and Issac were introduced as secondary characters in the first book and this book feels like a continuation of the first story but with a shift in the main characters. I don't remember feeling that way through her Heart of the Mountains series or Call of the Rockies series. So if you haven't read the first book Hope's Highest Mountain, it would be better to read that first to fully appreciate this story.

The plot is a bit different, too, in this story. The bulk of the plot deals with Joanna and Isaac chasing after the villains who took Joanna’s son Samuel and her friend Laura. The chase, though it is still a race for survival, feels somewhat different from the author's usual trek of survival in the wintery wilderness. Despite these differences, the author's trademark description of the inescapable beauty of the untamed land and accidents/tangles with nature and wildlife that will have your heart jumping in your throat is still vivid throughout the pages of this book. Isaac has a shameful past that he must acknowledge in order to help with the rescue and his full acceptance and embrace of God's forgiveness for his past also has the author's trademark touch.

If you enjoy historical romance, you will surely enjoy this series. I received a copy of the book from Bethany House Publishers via Celebrate Lit Tours and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.

4.5 stars
From page one, this novel was action packed. The plot centers around the perilous "quest" the two main characters go on to rescue Joanna' son and friend. There's some good backstory connection between Isaac and the kidnappers that added a lot to the story and the hero's faith journey. I like the way that Misty doesn't shy away from writing more intense details, whether it be romantic or dangerous circumstances. She didn't sugarcoat the experiences of the two young people taken captive, which helped build the plot's intensity. This also helped make the story stand out among other novels that have similar plot lines. This is only my second book by Misty M. Beller, my first being the first book in this series, and I have been really impressed by her originality and style of writing. I look forward to reading more of her books and have already started building a collection of some of her previous novels on my Kindle.

**I received a complimentary copy of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley in order to share my honest opinions, which I did.**

When I read Hope's Highest Mountain by Misty Beller I knew I would need to read the next book about Joanna and now I can't wait to read the third book (Faith's Mountain Home) about Joanna's friend Laura in January 2021!

This is a sweet western romance with lots of hold-your-breath moments while Joanna and rugged mountain man Isaac race to save her son and friend who were kidnapped. I was on the edge of my seat and couldn't stop reading until the very end. If you enjoy historical Christian fiction, you will love this one!

Thank you Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review. All opinions are my own.

Well done! I love all the historical details that Misty includes in her stories. I have read a lot of American history and fiction set in our history, but I can always count on her to have some new facts for me to uncover!

Joanna’s son was with a friend when kidnapped. Joanna is determined to find her son as any mother would be. She asks for help from Isaac. They have quite an adventure in traveling to find her son. Will they be able to find her son?

Love’s Mountain Quest is set in 1867, where the traveling was by horseback. Traveling by horseback is dangerous. During their trip, there are injuries to care for without a Doctor’s help. Will they all survive? I loved how brave Isaac was and how he was able to overcome his injury.



I received a complimentary copy of the book from Celebrate Lit. This book review

This is the first series I’ve read by Misty M. Beller. I was excited to read this second book. It kept my attention and I didn’t want to put the book down. The characters were developed well. I plan to jump right into the third book tomorrow!

I received a complimentary copy of this ARC from NetGalley on behalf of the Publisher and was under no obligation to post a favorable review.

This is book 2 of the Hearts of Montana series. Joanna has lost her husband and is on her own with her 5 year old son. She is determined to make a living for both of them. When she comes home from work one day and finds the sitter and her son missing, the sherriff is dead, she is in turmoil of what to do. She reaches out to a friend, Isacc who cares for her and her son very deeply but feels his past would be in the way of them having more than friendship. Can Isacc help Joanna find her son and the sitter? Will they end up being able to deal with past to make more in the future? How does their faith play a part?

I would recommend this to anyone that likes a historical (back into time) read with a flair of drama, mystery, faith. It is story that will keep you reading to find out what will happen and if everyone will survive. The story keeps flowing so it keeps your attention to wanting to know what is happening and also gets you attached to the characters of the story. This is one of those touching stories that will make you want to keep continuing with the story and you can't wait to the next book. This can be read as a stand alone without missing any details of this story, but it does make you want to read book 1 so that you get a little more background of Joanna.

What if a young mother came home from work and found that her young son and his babysitter were missing and a murdered man had been found near the place they were supposed to be? Imagine the frantic phone calls, the police swarming to the scene, and the news reports that would be seen and heard everywhere. A mother's worst nightmare, for sure, but what if this mother was actually a young widow living in Montana in 1867? Now you can call that a nightmare!
Love's Mountain Quest is the story of Joanna Watson and her frantic search for her five-year-old son and the young woman who was caring for him. Author Misty M. Beller vividly portrays Joanna's emotions that alter between hope, desperation, and the realization that the longer the search continues, the greater the chance is that they won't be found. All she can do is pray, believe that will God protect them, and trust that she and Isaac Bowen will be able to find Samuel and Laura. As their journey continues in the Rocky Mountains wilderness, their mutual respect blossoms into something more but Isaac has a secret from his past. Can their relationship survive if Joanna learns about his past life? Is is possible to endure the perils of this untamed territory? Will Joanna be reunited with her son and Laura?

Beller has created an exciting story with memorable characters and a wonderful faith message and she has filled it with adventure, danger, hope, and forgiveness. She also adds a sweet romance that will leave you wishing for a happy ending. If you enjoy historical Christian romance, you will definitely want to read Love's Mountain Quest.

I received a complimentary copy from the author via Celebrate Lit. There was absolutely no obligation for a positive review. These are my own thoughts.

When Joanna Watson's young son goes missing, along with her friend Laura, she turns to the one man she knows she can rely on, the mountain man who helped see them safe to Settler's Fort. Isaac Bowen is determined to bring the Samuel and Laura back safely and finds that he can't refuse Joanna when she insists on accompany him. But as they track the men who have kidnapped them, there are hardships and difficulties to overcome, not least of which is the consequences Isaac may have to face when he reveals his shameful past to the woman he has come to love.

In this second book of the Hearts of Montana series, author Misty M. Beller again brings out the core of strength that makes her characters survivors. Interspersed into the story of Joanna and Isaac's journey is the struggle of Laura and Samuel to survive the violence, deprivation, and the threat of worse - and for Laura, more personal - treatment at the hands of their kidnappers.

While this story does seem to have a disconnect between the danger Joanna's son is in and the romance thread, the overall story outweighed that concern for me as Beller portrays the natural and man-made dangers of the American frontier while also showing both evil that man can do and the yearning to live a better life, defined by faith, regardless of circumstances. With Laura and one of the outlaw gang members as the central couple in book three, I am looking forward to continuing this rugged Historical Christian Romance series.

Definitely another one for the reread shelf as Misty M. Beller is on her way to becoming a must-read author for me.

This review refers to a temporary digital galley that I voluntarily read through NetGalley, courtesy of the publisher (and a library ebook, too). An honest review was not required and this contains only my own, honest opinions.

What I I think you should know:
Love’s Mountain Quest by Misty M Beller is the second book in the Hearts of Montana series. It follows Joanna Watson and her son Samuel who were introduced in the first book, however this book can be read as a standalone as the first story is not critical to this one.

What you might need to know:
Laura and Samuel were kidnapped. The kidnappers are crude and harassing and allude to raping her several time. While nothing was described other than some groping, there was definitely some creep factor there.

What I think about this book:
What an adventure! This book was fast paced from start to end. Beller has a magical way of writing that paints vivid pictures of the story. While it was distressing to read about Joanna’s journey to rescue her son I love how Beller wrote the story. Isaac was a great character, even though his past had come back to haunt him he was determined to do the right thing and wouldn’t let anything stop him! I really hope we get more of Laura’s story, she was such a strong magnetic character.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Celebrate Lit, this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.